Associate - Star Venture

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is a leading international financial institution established in 199

• The EBRD's mission is to foster the transition to open market-oriented economies and promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia and beyond. The bank operates in over 30 countries, providing financial and technical assistance to support the development of the private sector. With a workforce of over 2,000 employees, the EBRD is committed to investing in projects that enhance the economic development of its regions while promoting sustainability and inclusivity.

Job Overview:
The Associate position within the EBRD Star Venture program is pivotal for the day-to-day operations and delivery of activities aimed at supporting high-potential startups in Sub-Saharan Africa. The role involves collaborating with various stakeholders, including local accelerators, investors, and corporates, to enhance startup ecosystems and improve access to finance for innovative firms. The Associate will be responsible for sourcing and selecting startups, managing operational implementations, and ensuring compliance with EBRD policies. This position requires a proactive approach to identifying business needs and advisory requirements of startups, facilitating their journey towards investment readiness, and leading ecosystem-building initiatives aligned with EBRD's strategic priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate will undertake a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: developing and maintaining annual country plans that align with Star Venture strategy; leading the execution of operational plans; coordinating delivery schedules and stakeholder engagement activities; contributing to fundraising efforts by providing relevant data and insights; managing local sourcing channels for startups; screening applications and preparing shortlist recommendations; maintaining relationships with advisors and startups; designing and delivering ecosystem-building activities; monitoring performance metrics and ensuring compliance with governance standards; and representing Star Venture in external engagements. The role also involves tracking startup progress, capturing success stories, and disseminating lessons learned to enhance program effectiveness.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong academic background, ideally with a bachelor’s degree from a leading institution and a master’s degree preferred in fields such as Economics, MBA, or Finance. A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience is preferred, with a solid understanding of startup growth dynamics, venture finance, and business models. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills, project management capabilities, and effective communication skills to manage relationships with various stakeholders. Proficiency in English and French is mandatory, along with fluency in the local language of operations. Computer literacy, particularly in Microsoft Office, is essential.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a bachelor’s degree from a reputable institution, with a master’s degree being highly desirable. Fields of study should ideally include Economics, Business Administration, Finance, or related disciplines that provide a strong foundation for understanding the complexities of startup ecosystems and venture financing.

Experience:
The position requires significant professional experience, ideally exceeding 10 years, in areas such as startup acceleration, venture capital, innovation advisory, or entrepreneurship support programs. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing startup support initiatives and working directly with founders, accelerators, and investors. Experience in multi-stakeholder environments and knowledge of donor-funded projects is also advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is mandatory for this role, both written and verbal. Additionally, proficiency in the local language of the country of operations is essential to facilitate effective communication with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract lasting for 2 years, with a focus on full-time engagement. The role involves significant collaboration with international teams, and candidates are encouraged to submit their resumes in English. The EBRD promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background. The organization offers a hybrid workplace model, emphasizing flexibility and employee well-being, along with a comprehensive benefits package.